ROGER OWEN HARRIS

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ROGER OWEN HARRIS "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise." On November 25, 2001, surrounded by love, our dear Roger passed away with his family and minister by his side, at the Selkirk and District General Hospital. Roger will be greatly missed and forever loved by his wife Jan, his son Dylan, his daughter Brandy, and his little guardian dog, Duchess, as well as his loving extended family: Margaret and John Kindrat, Cathy and Jim Bedard and nephews, Jared, Justin, and Jordan, Craig and Deb Kindrat and nephew Hayden, and many cherished relatives and friends. Roger was predeceased by his mother Abrina Jones Harris, and his father Owen Harris. Born in Bristol, England on September 24, 1940, he immigrated to Canada with his parents in 1948, living in Hamilton, Burlington and then settling in Winnipeg. After graduating from the University of Winnipeg College, he attended Jamestown College in North Dakota on a track and field scholarship. On his return to Winnipeg, he taught English at the junior and senior high level in the Winnipeg School Division. He later held employment with Manitoba Bridge and Engineering as a Personnel Supervisor and a Communications Writer with Manitoba Hydro, as well as various other public service positions before coming to work at the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba in 1980 until his retirement in 2000. As an addictions counsellor and educator, Roger found it very gratifying to work with people facing the challenge of addiction in their lives. He was known for his innovative ways of teaching and communicating, often complemented by his witty sense of humour. After settling in Selkirk, with his wife Jan in 1986, he became interested in municipal government and was very proud to be elected for two terms as a School Trustee in the Lord Selkirk School Division (1992 - 98) and then as a City Councillor with the City of Selkirk in 1998 to the time of his passing. Among the joys in his life, Roger was a passionate fisherman and an avid bridge player, and an enthusiastic supporter of his sons many activities. It brought Roger much happiness to be re-united with his daughter in his later years. For him, being with family and friends were the most cherished times, whether playing cards, watching a movie or just visiting. Like all of us, Roger experienced challenges in his life. Some he overcame while others were faced with tremendous love and bravery. Those who knew Roger, both closely, as well as casually, have been enriched by his generous, fun-loving and unique spirit. Not afraid to give his honest opinion, he enjoyed the challenge of debate, yet often found ways to make many people feel recognized and special. The family would like to extend their warmest appreciation to the many care providers Roger had over the course of his illness: Dr. R. Lindenschmidt, Dr. H. Demsas, Dr. M.I. Hussain, Dr. P. Harris, Dr. G. Sims, Terri Morrisseau; nurses, Bev Murray and Heidi Schollenberg; as well as the caring staff of the lab / x-ray department and the wonderful staff on the medical unit of S&DGH. Also special thanks to the Kenyon family and many other friends, relatives and co-workers, too numerous to mention, for all the love and support that made difficult times much lighter. Thank you to Pastor Leon Gilbertson for his calming and reassuring visits during Rogers last days. According to Rogers wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held to honour Rogers life on Friday, November 30 at 11:00 a.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Highway No. 9, Selkirk, MB, with Pastor Leon Gilbertson leading the service. Flowers are gratefully declined, but if so desired, donations may be made in Rogers memory to the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Selkirk, MB, or to an educational trust fund that has been established for Rogers 14 year old son, Dylan, through the TD Canada Trust Bank in Selkirk, MB. Gilbart Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 28, 2001